Heavy is the head that wears the crown, or in this case, your job as a remote team leader is far from easy. Of course, nothing worthwhile is easy. And while running a remote team can be challenging, it can also be rewarding in the long run.
A remote team leader faces many challenges, from time zones to finding successful ways for their team to effectively collaborate and communicate. But being a leader means knowing how to overcome these challenges and successfully start your online team.
And to do all of this, you need to learn how to leverage technology and how to build a positive work culture, among other things. So, let’s see what starting a successful online team is all about.
- Set clear goals
A successful online team works together and strives towards the same goals. So, you can’t expect a united and successful team if you don’t set clear goals and explain your vision. Knowing what they are working towards, will motivate and encourage your team to always do better. That’s no different for teams in the physical workplace and those in an online environment.
However, what’s different is that in virtual offices there’s no space for misunderstandings. Everything needs to be clear – clear instructions, expectations, to-do lists, deadlines, and so on.
And this is precisely why you need to set clear goals right from the start. Don’t let them simply be implied, instead make sure all your employees know everything that needs to be known right from the get-go.
- Communicate effectively at all levels
Communication is what can either make or break your online team. That’s why, as a leader, you should make sure that there’s effective communication at all levels. This includes both external and internal communication examples.
To enable the best possible communication with your team, you need to find the right communication technology. Once you find the right technology and communication system, communication will be easy.
Of course, you should also know that with so many communication technologies out there, you can combine and implement different systems that are tailored just for your team.
- Good project management system
Implement a good project management system. A good project management system will help you keep track of projects and it will also ensure that all team members are on the same page.
There are tons of different project management software out there, so finding the one that works for you and your team will take some trial and error. However, don’t give up, because once you find it, your job, everyone’s job will be ten times easier.
A great project management system usually also serves as a good collaboration and communication system as well, so you may want to find software that incorporates all of these in one.
- Positive work culture
How your employees feel in their virtual workplace reflects a lot on their work. So, logically, you can’t expect an effective and productive team if the working environment is less than desirable.
Do everything you can to build a positive work culture with your team. This implies, that as a leader you should lead by example. Be open, transparent, and honest.
Reliability and accountability are two crucial characteristics a leader should have. Motivate your online employees and give them a sense of purpose and belonging.
All of these things will inspire and encourage them to follow your lead, trust you, and openly communicate with you about everything. Only through a positive work culture can you reap all the benefits of a successful online team.
- Delegation
As a leader, you are bound to have a lot on your plate. And while delegating is the right way to deal with this problem, it isn’t always easy for leaders to do.
Delegating requires a lot of trust between team members and leaders. So, to come to the point where there’s mutual trust, you’ll need to work a lot. Communication is the key step toward building that trust.
When it comes to delegation, you also have to be aware that you can’t expect one individual to take on all the responsibility. Instead, divide and assign projects to every team member, and recognize and embrace the skills of each and every one of your online employees.
Starting a successful online team is all about the right practices. It’s about shaping the team right from the start, setting clear goals and expectations, and finding the right technology to help you out.
